dealing with a contractor

[philosophe]

I hired a concrete guy to fix my front steps and walkway. Thirty days after receiving the deposit, he tore up the site. Thirty days later, he's done nothing whatsoever and is full of bs re health problems, weather, etc., etc. Daily calls have done no good at all. At this point, I want to be done with the bastard and to get my money back if possible.

How would you handle the situation? Have my lawyer send him a demand letter? Take him to small claims court?

 

[Manton]

I feel for you, man. I have had problems, but nothing like that. I suppose I would give him a deadline and make clear that after that deadline, action will be taken. Whether that is small claims or another type of suit depends on how much $ you are out, and the law in your state.

 

[EL72]

That's a tough and unfortunately all too common scenario. A letter from a lawyer is unlikely to do anything and cost you $. Small claims court is an option. It's hard to do but sometimes you need to cut your losses, learn a lesson and move on. Did you give a large deposit, more than 20%? Tearing up the existing concrete is worth at least 10-15% of the total cost (has he disposed of the waste? That 's usually worth $500-$1,000+ depending on how much).

One of the few things he may respond to is if you threaten to call his other clients and any references and warn them about him. Was he referred by another contractor? Threaten to call them, the BBB and to register a domain name called: www.tonythecontactorisacrook.com so that any internet search on him will reveal how he is a scoundrel and even put up a lawn sign.